Menu
Menu

Blog Archives

Tags: health and nutrition
16 comments
02 March 2012

cut the sugar, sugar! (a sugar-detox challenge)

Facebook Twitter Pinterest

…. because you’re sweet enough!

(welcome to my 3 month – 3 week – or 3 day ‘cut the sugar’ challenge!)

Well hello my sweet sweet friends! You can’t argue here, because I know very well – you’re sweet enough!

Did you know that SUGAR is the number one addiction in North America? We often think of addictions as some kind of uncontrolled high from drugs or other stimulants. Well, sugar is just that. It’s a legal drug!

Sugar affects opioids and dopamine in the brain, and thus might be expected to have addictive potential. “Bingeing,” “withdrawal,” “craving” and “cross-sensitization” are each given operational definitions and demonstrated behaviorally with sugar bingeing as the reinforcer. These behaviors are then related to neurochemical changes in the brain that also occur with addictive drugs. Of course, the sugar industry claims that similar effects have been reported for rats given solutions that tasted sweet, but contained no calories. However, caloric value may not be the issue. Sugar and the taste of sweet stimulate the brain by activating beta endorphin receptor sites. These are the same chemicals activated by heroin and morphine. Crazy! Am I right? And meanwhile, you’re already twitching from a craving of your sugary drug!

Current Sugar Guidelines

Here are some crazy facts about just exactly how much sugar we are consuming on average. On average, Canadians and Americans consume approximately 110 grams of sugar a day, the equivalent of 26 teaspoons. Recently, the American Heart Association published recommended limits for intake of added sugars as a means to help reduce risk for heart disease. The current recommended limits for added sugars are:

100 calories for women (25 grams or 6 teaspoons)

150 calories for men (38 grams or 9 teaspoons)

A single can of coke has approximately 10 teaspoons of sugar – that certainly puts you way over the whole day’s dose, and that’s just with one beverage.

Added vs. Natural Sugar?

The guidelines specifically refer to added sugars: table sugar, honey, natural syrups (e.g. agave, maple, and molasses), commercial syrups (e.g. high fructose corn syrup), and concentrated fruit sugars added to foods to sweeten or preserve. The naturally occurring sugars in milk, fresh fruit, dried and frozen fruit without added sugar and 100% fruit juice are not considered added sugars. Artificial sweeteners and sugar alcohols are also not considered added sugars.

But there is a catch, research shows that artificial sweeteners are dangerous to your health!

Sugar grams listed on the Nutrition Facts panels of most food products include both naturally occurring sugars and added sugars. This might change in the future with a new labeling law, but for now, you have to look at the ingredient list to find added sugars. Names for added sugars are numerous. (click below the break to read a whole list of sugar in other forms).

It is easy to identify regular soda pop and energy drinks as examples of empty calories, but what about sugary foods and drinks that also have nutrients? Choose brands that have less added sugar than their rivals. Or, select unsweetened versions. See the list below for nutritious foods that often have too much added sugar:

“Natural Sugars” include:

  • milk (lactose)
  • fruit (fructose, sucrose)
  • vegetables
  • carbohydrates such as pasta, bread

“Added (free) Sugars” include:

The healthiest options:

  • Fruit and natural fruit juices
  • Honey – (non-vegan) Unlike white table sugar, honey is a complex food. One teaspoon contains 25 other compounds including proteins, amino acids and trace minerals.
  • Agave - A distilled sweetener derived from the blue agave cactus, agave has a low glycemic index.
  • Stevia - A low-calorie sweetener that comes from a plant native to Paraguay and Brazil, stevia is 200 times sweeter than table sugar, so a little goes a long way.
  • Maple Syrup
  • Molasses
  • Brown Rice Syrup

    • Eliminate Hidden and Artificial Sugars

    When purging your kitchen, be on the look out for these names:

    • table sugar (refined, processed sugars from cane, beet – sucrose – added to foods by the manufacturer, cook or consumer)
    • corn sugar (glucose)
    • corn syrup
    • high-fructose corn syrup commonly added to fruit juices
    • maltose
    • sorbitol
    • xylotol
    • sugars ending in “ol” or “ose”

    The worst lil’ white devils! These descriptions are taken from Dr Oz’s website – I’m thinking that he doesn’t want any lawsuits from Splenda or the other brands so he mentions a few good points and he’s done with it! Wrong! In my research Sucralose, Aspertame and Saccharin are very dangerous chemicals. If you want to get healthier – do yourself a favour and never consume these and never allow your family especially kids to have these.

    • Sucralose (includes Splenda brand) – What it claims: It is 500 times sweeter than sucrose, stored in body fats, and does not affect blood sugar levels. Its use is too new to know the long-term effects, but it appears the most promising and is the best one for cooking. Note : Do not consume. Enough research is out there to prove it is not safe.
    • Aspartame (includes Equal, Nutrasweet brands) – Several studies have found it has adverse health effects. This sweetener stays in your body longest, and it cannot be heated – or it turns into formaldehyde. Note : Do not consume. Enough research is out there to prove it is not safe.
    • Saccharin (includes Sweet’N Low brand) – Long-term data suggest it may be one of the safest sweeteners, even if some of the data is not positive. Note : Do not consume. Enough research is out there to prove it is not safe.

    Let’s not sugar-coat things. Know your risks:

    1. High Blood Pressure – Normal nitric oxide levels keep blood vessels healthy and open. Too much sugar in your diet decreases nitric oxide levels, causing blood vessels to become narrow, which causes high blood pressure and an increased risk for cardiac disease.

    2. High Cholesterol – People who consume too much sugar are more likely to have lower levels of HDL, or good cholesterol, higher levels of LDL, or bad cholesterol, and higher levels of triglycerides, or blood fats. This clogs up arteries and blood vessels, leading to heart disease.

    3. Liver Disease – A diet high in sugar is believed to exacerbate fatty liver disease. Too much sugar spikes insulin and drives fat into the liver cells, which causes inflammation and scarring, eventually causing the liver to become cirrhotic.

    4. Insulin Resistance – When sugar enters the body, insulin opens the door to allow sugar into the cells. However, when there are continuous sugar spikes, insulin becomes less effective. Sugar can’t get into the cells and become “stuck” in the body, producing toxic effects that lead to obesity and the threat of diabetes.

    …….

    I turned my health around from a devastating disease, as I have frequently mentioned here on this blog. Many people now ask me how can I help them start getting healthier themselves. Cutting the sugar is the honest answer as to how I started getting healthier. You can get your health back too.

    And even though you’re not sick, that doesn’t always mean that you’re healthy.

    Try this. From my nurturing heart to you – this is my gift. No fees, no strings attached. All I need is a bit of your dedication and will power.

    Essentially, I would like this to be a lesson for both me and you to make good decisions when it comes to sugar intake. There are lots of confusing choices out there. But first, the best thing you can do for your body is to go on a sugar-detox. Hence the need for the 3 month challenge. (or however long you can do it for)

    My sugar-detox challenge, will help you overcome your cravings and make you feel healthier and happier. You will feel more energized and in control of your body and mind.  Your body will heal from any possible health issues you may have and help you prevent many health problems later.

    Here are the 8 Guidelines to follow your Sugar-Detox. It’s not complicated at all, you can do this and your body will thank you for it with more vitality, energy and even appearance in your skin! (just before summer! Yeah)

    1. Purge all your kitchen sugar items, either discard or put in a bin and let someone else more responsible in your household to hide it from sight.

    2. No cheating! Look at that bowl of cereal closely too, how much sugar is in it anyway? Judge honestly – don’t cheat. That also means no baking your favourite cookies and having home-made desserts. (ok, you can cheat here just a little, on a special occasion – once a week is ok if you do the full 3 month challenge). But cut down the recipe by even 1/2 the sugar it calls for in the recipe. And substitute all purpose flour which turns to glucose aka sugar anyway for something with more nutrition and added value to your meal.

    3. When shopping for new items, look out for the hidden and artificial sweetners and just make a conscious decision to NOT purchase any sugary products – other than Fruit!

    4. You will crave, get moody, kick and scream when you remember your ‘fix’. Do not think about what you’re giving up, instead, think of all the good things you’re adding to your body. Removing unhealthy sugary products, leaves room for more veggies and more healthy foods.

    5. Do prepare yourself some healthy snacks when the cravings to come in. Have a healthy stash of snacks that you can have in between meals like almonds, nuts and seeds. A spoonful of unsweetened almond butter in between meals  Dried fruit – with NO artificial sweeteners or preservatives added. Organic if possible or better yet, dehydrate fresh organic apples and pears for a great snack time for the whole family.

    6. Fresh fruit is acceptable but make sure you have fresh fruit on an empty stomach in between meals, and just a small serving at a time. Do not have any fresh fruit close to bedtime – and never bananas.

    7. Add cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, vanilla or allspice to your tea or coffee, cereals and baked goods – this will help to fool your taste buds and help you control your cravings.

    8. Beverages – drink water! In fact, make it a point to drink filtered or boiled but cooled water more frequently. Try switching up the variety and have a mineral water like Perrier. If you must have juice, choose a good quality natural juice – better yet juice yourself. The best way to still get lots of vitamins from fruit is to eat the whole fruit.

    9. Taking this sugar-detox plunge will leave room for healthier alternatives – have more salads and veggies. Fresh organic baby carrots and other conveniently cut up veggie sticks can be left in a bowl on the kitchen counter for everyone to grab on the go or can be packed up for work or school. Make conscious decisions to replace all that sugar with better choices!

    10. Make this a lifestyle change not just a challenge. Stick it out through the suggested 3 months! Highly recommended to bring your health back. Make the decisions daily to Cut the Sugar, sugar! Remember, you’re sweet enough!

    …….

    I encourage everyone to think about this challenge and to join in for however long you can. If you can do the 3 full months. Great. To lessen the challenge, try 3 weeks – or even 3 days just to test your own will power. You will still reap with health benefits and your body and mind will thank you for it.

    I would appreciate any support of this challenge to spread the word about sugar awareness. You can grab the  ‘Cut the Sugar, Sugar!’ button up above and share on your blog’s sidebar or click Like to share on your facebook.

    You can join anytime throughout March – June. For how long, is your own choice. Three months is most beneficial.

    You choose: 3 months. 3 weeks. 3 days

    Good Luck my friends. I will be here for support and to answer any questions you might have. Throughout the 3 months March – June, you may contact me via the comments in this post, or by email ella(at)lifeologia(dot)com

    Ps. I’m also doing this challenge so I will be following my own rules ;) This will be fun!

    Ahh just writing this made me crave chocolate! ;D HA!

    *sending big supportive hugs*

    YOU’RE SWEET ENOUGH!

    Do you have intense cravings that could almost be described as addictive? How do you handle sugar cravings? What’s in your sugary ‘stash’ right now?

    One way to find out if you have a very intense uncontrolled sweet tooth, is to take a challenge like this even for just a few days and see how you handle it. If you do see yourself craving sugar uncontrollably – that’s even a bigger reason for you to go on the Sugar-Detox challenge.

    FAQ – is chocolate allowed? Yes, kind of.  But make sure it’s all natural, non dairy, 70% dark cocoa is allowed. But only two squares per day!

    …….

    Still not convinced why you should cut down on sugar?  read more…..


    Facebook Twitter Pinterest
    Continue reading ...
    Tags: health and nutrition, healthy recipes
    9 comments
    23 February 2012

    healthy recipes : vegan cabbage rolls

    Facebook Twitter Pinterest

    Since we’re on the topic of cabbage and you’ve invested all of your $1.50 for a head of cabbage, you might as well know what else you can do with that big leafy ball of goodness*. Not only will these recipes rescue two days (yes two, because when you make these, you go for a big batch), but you will also find out just how actually healthy cabbage is. Because, although cabbage gets a bad reputation out there, you don’t need to love it ~ but just like it enough to occasionally make it for your family in the form of comfort food and good nutrition. (see below)

    Vegan Cabbage Rolls

    • vegan and gluten-free
    • inexpensive
    • great to make ahead and reheat the next day

    Ingredients

    • large head of cabbage
    • 1 large onion
    • 1 clove of garlic
    • 1/2 bag or measure 1 1/2 cups of Bob’s Red Mill Organic TSP (textured soy protein)

      • Bob’s Red Mill Organic TSP (Textured Soy Protein), 6-Ounce Bags (Pack of 4)

    • 1 cup buckwheat or rice, cooked separately and drained
    • 1 celery stalk, diced or shredded
    • 2 large carrots, shredded
    • 1 jar of organic canned tomatoes (or a jar of spaghetti sauce but then don’t add the spices or salt)
    • 1 sm can of tomato paste
    • 1 tsp dried marjoram or dried oregano
    • 1 tsp of thyme
    • salt and pepper to taste
    • water
    • olive oil for cooking

    Directions

    First you need to cut into the cabbage and remove the core.In large pot with boiling salted water, cover and cook the cabbage for 8-10 minutes or until leaves are softened. Chill in cold water until it’s no longer hot and it becomes easy to handle. Carefully remove about 10 – 12  leaves, returning cabbage to pan for 2 to 3 minutes if leaves become difficult to remove. Cut off coarse veins and set aside. (The leaves inside near the centre of the cabbage, will be too small to peel off and use for wrapping, but you can still use them up in this dish. Cut them thinly and set aside. We will use them in the base of the pan later.)

    In a medium pot, set the buckwheat or rice  (or a mix of both grains) to boil in hot water to cook as per instructions.

    Filling: In a large saucepan, heat the oil and cook the onion, garlic, and spices. Cook until the onions turn golden but not burned. Add in carrots and celery and cook for a few minutes. Add in the TSP with water as it will absorb a lot of water immediately. Adjust heat to low-medium. Add in 3/4 of the tomatoe sauce and just enough water so it doesn’t stick to the pan. Continue by adding in the buckwheat and/ or rice, stir well, cover and cook for about 5 minutes to let the flavours absorb.

    To assemble: Line a large baking dish with the chopped up cabbage that was reserved with some of the tomato sauce.  To make the rolls, spoon about 2-3 tablespoons of the filling onto each leaf just above the stem. Fold in bottom and the sides over the filling and roll up. Arrange the cabbage rolls neatly so they hold together better, you can do two layers.  Cover with remaining tomato sauce and whisked tomato paste. Cover with lid or foil and bake in 350°F (180°C) oven for 1 hour.

    Alternatively, here is an adjustment to the recipe if you want Vegetarian Cabbage Rolls:These are also gluten-free and vegan; vegetarian nonetheless. The variation here is really simple, instead of the TSP, there’s more veggies. Adding 1 more carrot and 2 small zucchinis will make a nice filling. Mushrooms would also be a good add on- however, I don’t eat any mushrooms on the ACD (anti-candida diet), so if you follow my diet, you’d know that any mushrooms are not allowed ;) I still suggest this version though because not everyone needs the restrictions. I also really do prefer making these with the organic soy protein as it’s a great source of protein and without it in this dish, you’re missing the most valuable food source and just filling up.

    I must say that these are a lot easier to do than you think. Best of all, they are better the next day and stay fresh (with even more flavour) up to three days. So it’s great to make a big batch and just reheat on a busy week. You can freeze smaller portions also for a quick emergency meal. Delicious!

    I do hope you like cabbage by now ;) It’s really a great, versatile, health-boosting and very inexpensive vegetable. Here is the *goodness* I’ve mentioned above:

    Health benefits of : Cabbage – ‘the drug of the poor’

    There are many types of cabbage which is a leafy green vegetable, enriched with several vital nutrients like vitamins C, E,K, A, iron, folic acid, magnesium, sulfur, manganese and potassium, all accountable for their healing properties and is the most consumed vegetable in the world. It does not contain cholesterol and the harmful saturated fats and is very low in calories.

    The Cabbage comes from the family Brassicaceae with other important member such as Brussels Sprouts, Broccoli and Kale. Cabbage is one of the cheapest and most readily available vegetable, through out the world with the green cabbage being the most common.

    Cabbage leaves have been used for relieving inflammation with modern  studies  revealing its effectiveness in lowering the risk of several types ofcancer including cancer of the colon and stomach. Cabbage has excellent detoxifying properties which purifies the blood by eliminating unwanted toxins. Fresh cabbage juice has also been found to be very effective for healing stomach or peptic ulcers due to the high sulfur content of cabbage, which is required by the body in order to fight infections.

    Sulfoaphane is a chemical compound found in cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower and Cabbages that is thought to function by stimulating the production of enzymes in the body detoxifying cancer causing substances, along with photonutrients in red cabbage that can protect the brain cells from free radical damages that cause aging. Other important health benefits of cabbage are providing relief from constipation, improving vision, lowering cholesterol, prevention of Alzheimer’s disease and inhibiting growth of tumours.

    Vitamin K found in the cabbage is known for its role in the process of blood clotting with the most healthbenefits in weight loss. With so many health benefits, there is little doubt as to why this vegetable was termed the ‘drug of the poor’ in the middle ages. There are very few vegetables enriched with so many vital nutrients andhealth benefits. (source)

    ps. I have a funny story that came from my friend and it involves cabbage in a very interesting way. Her mother in law slipped on some ice and hurt her shoulder badly. They applied ~ guess what? – cabbage to the injured area as it apparently relieves pain and swelling. But the pain persisted and they went to the ER that evening – forgetting to take out the leaves. LOL. Well, you can just imagine how they became quite the event in the ER clinic. The nurses then the doctor, then another doctor as they felt this was very amusing all gathered and chuckled at the ‘silliness’. Oh that poor family suffered immense embarrassment…. I really felt for them, although I was also laughing till my stomach hurt when my friend was telling me all of this….

    The moral of the story? It turns out they knew something…. Read here how the cabbage really does help to treat pain and swelling and is sworn as an affective treatment for minor discomfort, pain and injury.

    Do you cook with cabbage? What are your favourite recipes with it?

    sharing with Wellness Weekend


    Facebook Twitter Pinterest
    Continue reading ...
    Tags: health and nutrition
    5 comments
    08 February 2012

    live better : get your sexy on

    Facebook Twitter Pinterest

    With Valentine’s Day coming up and all…. Love is kind of in the air – and in the bedroom ~ or is it?

    Well, that’s why I’m here to help. Lack of sexual desire could put your relationship in a stale situation. We’re all grown ups here, we know sexual intimacy  is human nature and it’s very healthy to be happy in your sex life. It should be natural to have needs for *it* ~ if you don’t… well, something’s up with your hormones. And that’s why I want to share this with you. Perhaps the simplest, natural things you can add to your diet that may just save your relationship!

    The secret is supplementing with : Maca Root!

    Before you read up on all the benefits of Maca Root, you should know one thing :

    Maca Root is known for enhancing sexual desire and performance. (that’s good, right?)

     

    I personally like this Certified Organic MacaSure Maca Root Extract from Sequel Naturals.

     

    Maca root powder is a root plant that is similar in appearance to the turnip but that is often used as a medicinal herb rather than a food. The plant grows in the Andes Mountains and some other regions in South America. The plant is typically found growing naturally in high altitudes and is harvested, dried and powered to be sold in capsules to people around the world.

    The Benefits of Maca

    Studies have shown that one of the main Maca root powder benefits is that the plant can work to balance hormones by directly working with the body’s endocrine system. The plant is most often used as a way to combat erectile dysfunction that is caused by hormone disruptions, but is also used for other conditions.

    For example, a benefit of using Maca is that the plant can improve libido in men and can also improve the quality of sperm produced. While the plant hasn’t been studied extensively, it is most often used to treat sexual dysfunction related to the use of SSRI anti-depressants in both men and women. The powder also has been shown to reduce cholesterol and improve good cholesterol in humans.

    Maca is a plant that is known for being very high in glucosinolates, and its regular consumption can exacerbate goiters if enough salt and iodine aren’t also present in the body. The regions where Maca grows naturally include Peru and other areas where iodized salt may not be as readily available as in other, less remote, areas of the world.

    In general, Maca is just as safe to eat as any other natural growing plant. Maca root powder has actually been used as a base for flour in many dishes in regions where the plant naturally grows.

    How Does Maca Work?

    Maca root powder affects the body in several ways. When considering the hormones the plant works by providing the nutrients that the body needs to naturally produce hormones in the amount needed for proper sexual function. Maca has even been used to treat hormone related PMS successfully.

    While Maca does effect the production and regulation of hormones it also contains many different nutrients that have a positive affect on the body. While the exact mechanism of Maca root has not been determined scientifically, studies do show some proof of the benefits. source

    You can pick up Maca Root supplements at most health food stores or order online. My suggestion is to go for Raw Maca – works better in smaller quantities and look for high quality reputable brands.

    From a personal experience, having dealt with an illness, depression, struggling to take care of a little baby and myself, and dealing with stress and anxiety all put a dent in our marriage and intimacy level. Things were not the same anymore between us for a number of years…. until recently.  I guess there’s always up and down times with sexual drive for most women, especially moms who have to deal with the extra carousel spin of emotional and hormonal struggles. Taking care of yourself by eating healthy and exercising, and sleeping properly, as well as supplementing with Maca Root might give you that boost to get you back in the game ;) Just saying. ;)

    Get your sexy on!

    Facebook Twitter Pinterest
    Continue reading ...
    Tags: healthy recipes
    13 comments
    12 January 2012

    mung bean cakes

    Facebook Twitter Pinterest

    I pay attention to my health and diet, as you may already know, but that doesn’t mean I compromise taste or quality in my meals. These mung bean cakes are incredibly delicious, light-tasting but very filling. So if one of your resolutions for 2012 is to eat healthier – we can certainly become BFF’s – and this is one of many light, simple and healthy meals for you.

    My diet consists of mainly plant based foods, no meat or dairy and no wheat products. This may seem challenging when cravings call for some good comfort food. This meal is exactly that : comfort food that’s actually very good for you. Try it!

    Mung beans are rich in the following nutrients : protein, vitamin C, folic acid or folate, iron, zinc, potassium,  magnesium, copper, manganese, phosphorus, thiamine. Mung beans are also high in fibre, low in saturated fat, low in sodium, and contain no cholesterol.  Because of the wide range of nutrients contained in mung beans, they offer a whole host of health benefits for the immune system, the metabolism, the heart and other organs, cell growth, protection against free radicals, and diseases such as cancer and diabetes.

    Is that enough to convince you that these are crazy healthy cakes ;) Let’s get right to the recipe, shall we, so you can make these Asap!

    Ingredients for Mung Bean Cakes:

    1 cup dried mung beans (I used ‘husked’), cooked separately
    1 large onion
    3 cloves of garlic
    2 large carrots
    1 tsp mild curry powder
    1/2 tsp turmeric powder
    sea salt and pepper to taste
    chickpea flour
    olive oil for frying
    optional: cayenne pepper (if you want a little spice)

    Directions:

    Make ahead: Cook the mung beans as directed on the package in about 2-3 cups of water. (they usually require to be rinsed and soaked for a couple of hours or left overnight, or may need to cook longer if you don’t pre-soak). Add salt after they have cooked and strain well.  (a great idea is to cook these the night before and placed in the fridge overnight)

    Grate the carrots very fine, (I use the slicer in the food processor for the carrots to speed up prep time). Dice the onions and fry on a large skillet on medium heat to a transparent gold colour. Add the garlic and cook for 1 – 2 minutes. Add the carrots and mix and cook for about 5 minutes. Add the mung beans to this and stir well, add the spices and adjust the flavour as necessary. Turn off heat and let stand until it’s cool to the touch. (I usually spread half of this mixture on a large plate to speed up the cooling time.

    Spread a coat of chickpea flour on a large plate. Shape your mung bean mixture into a ball and press gently to form a burger shape. Gently press into the chickpea flour and cover all sides. Fry on a large skillet in olive oil on medium heat for about 5 minutes on the one side, and about 2 minutes on the other. Do not move them around during the cooking time, until they are ready to be flipped. (you may place them on a plate with paper towels to absorb the oil a little)

    Serve them with Quinoa Rice and a salad.

    Quinoa Rice: Boil 3/4 cups of basmati rice and 1/2 cup of white Quinoa. This is a great tasting mix that blends well with most dishes with the added nutrients of quinoa.

    ..

    Some of you have spoken/ written, and I have answered with your request for more healthy vegan, gluten-free, anti-candida recipes. I hope you like this recipe and would like me to share more healthy meals right here. I’m a girl of many hobbies but cooking is a real passion that’s creative, fulfilling and lately healing – please tell me what you would like me to share more of and I will be happy to reset my focus ;) Thank you. Ella

    Facebook Twitter Pinterest
    Continue reading ...
    Tags: health and nutrition
    7 comments
    11 January 2012

    live better : home remedies for colds and flu

    Facebook Twitter Pinterest

    Hello my dear friends, I hope you’re well! Me, not so much ~ I came down with the flu yesterday and experienced one of the worst nights and days I could remember. Of course, I think it somehow relates to me not adding ‘boost you immune system function by eating more fruits and vegetables!’ to yesterday’s post about 10 things to do in winter. Sorry post, because that certainly should be #1. I think I’ve learned my lesson and not offend my blog anymore ;) Well, let’s take a break from me having a relationship with my blog and focus on today’s post. See, I had to redeem myself!

    Whether you’re sick or have someone who is sick with a cold or flu, or are in perfect health at the moment, knowing how to nurture and what to do when the cards fall in your hands, is the best thing you can do for yourself and your family.

    Here are my 3 picks for the Live Better addition to the blog : home remedies for colds and flu:

    1. Eat more garlic.

    Add it to all your favourite foods, by gently increasing the amount so you’re husband doesn’t think you’re warding off vampires. Eat it raw, sliced into sandwiches and paninis. Make fresh humus, other dips, sauces. It does not matter how you do it – but eat more garlic!

    2. Make a homemade syrup.

    This is an easy, quick and very inexpensive way to have a homemade syrup at home ~ so you know what’s in it and can’t overdose.

    It is made up of 2 simple ingredients: onions and honey (or agave nectar, maple syrup (any other natural sweetner if vegan). (optionally, you could add a sliced clove of garlic to this as well.) Simply, slice the onion (or onions – if the whole household has the bug). And drizzle in about 1/4 cup of good quality honey. We never really measure but it turns out great every time. Mix, cover and let stand for about 3-4 hours at room temperature. You need the time to allow the sugar from the honey to release all the juices from the onions. The liquid that accumulates is your syrup.

    Please be certain that this tastes really good, and you don’t get the flavour of onions or garlic (if using), it’s actually sweet and tasty and even kids* love it. Serve with a clean spoon everytime you hear a cough or a sad puppy face on someone with a kleenex in their hands. Good for up to 3 days, store in the refrigerator over night. * my 4 year old actually prefers this from the over-the-counter syrups we used to buy, my siblings make it for their kids, and my husband remembers this concoction served up when he was a kid ;)

    3. Increase your Vitamin C. Make a lemonAid

    For a big-time Vitamin C boost, squeeze one or more lemons and mix that with filtered or boiled, but cooled water and a spoonful of raw sugar, honey or agave. Optionally, you could add a few drops of Echinacea (I like EchinaSeal from St. Francis) to create a more potent boost for your immune system. Do stay within room temperatures though, when serving your immune-boosting lemonAid and avoid beverages directly from your fridge or with ice cubes. Your soar throat and digestive system will thank you for it.

    Overall, remember to eat healthy meals with lots of vegetables, relax, nap if you can and nurture yourself and your family back to good health. Get well soon!

    Please share if you have some homemade remedies for colds and flu, so we get a little wiser, and I get better faster ;) xo

    Facebook Twitter Pinterest



    Related Posts Plugin for WordPress, Blogger...

    Continue reading ...
    Newer Entries
    Older Entries